Friday, October 8, 2010

Ford Motor Company served as the platinum sponsor of the Jackie Robinson Foundation's (JRF), 5th Anniversary JAZZ on the Grass benefit concert (JAZZ), held on Saturday, October 2, 2010 in Sherman Oaks, California at the estate of Lynne and Oz Scott, renowned director and producer. JRF provides financial grants and support services to deserving college students.

“Ford Motor Company is proud to continue our legacy of supporting education through innovative programs,” said Pamela Alexander, director, Ford Motor Company Fund. “Our partnership with the Jackie Robinson Foundation is one of many investments we are making in today's youth.”

Hosted by comedian/actor Chris Spencer, JAZZ raised funds for JRF’s comprehensive program including financial support, mentoring, and professional development. With a nearly 100 percent graduation rate, JRF has earned the distinction as one of the nation’s most effective scholarship organizations.

JAZZ on the Grass’ roots span nearly five decades. Inspired by the March on Washington, Jackie and Rachel Robinson organized their first jazz concert at their home in Stamford, Connecticut in 1963 to raise bail money for jailed civil rights activists, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Following Jackie Robinson’s death in 1972, the concert became a JRF fundraiser on the east coast and since 2005, has become the signature west coast event. The west coast benefit has featured Patti Austin, George Duke, Lalah Hathaway, James Ingram, Dave Koz, Brian McKnight, Marcus Miller, Jeffrey Osborne, Kenny Rankin, and Brenda Russell.

Pamela Alexander, Director of Community Development, Ford Motor Company Fund and Rachel Robinson, wife of the late baseball great Jackie Robinson
Visit http://www.jackierobinson.org/ to learn more.

Pictured in top photo: 6 time NBA Champion Kareem Abdul Jabbar is flanked by Pamela Alexander and Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholar Taylor Moore at the 5th anniversary "JAZZ on The Grass" Fundraiser.